Oenothera versicolor
A short-lived perennial with linear, toothed leaves borne on upright, deep red stems that are topped in summer by tight clusters of fragrant yellow-orange flowers to 2.5cm across that darken to orange-red shades with age
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Yellow Orange Red | Green | ||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Onagraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Oenothera can be annuals, biennials or perennials, upright or spreading in habit, with simple or lobed leaves and bowl-shaped, white, yellow or pink flowers over a long period in summer
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in an average to rich, well-drained soil in full sun or light shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Coastal
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
- Ground cover
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to slugs
Diseases
May be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildews and downy mildews; root rot may be a problem in rich, wet, heavy soil. Generally disease-free
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